The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Brooks Jared Harral (NSN: 0-71306), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RAY (SS-271), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine in enemy-controlled waters, from 13 November to 6 December 1943. Thoroughly capable of his task and with courageous disregard of danger, Commander Harral expertly maneuvered his vessel despite severe enemy gunfire and depth charge attacks and, directing his ship’s fire with calm skill and aggressiveness, destroyed two valuable Japanese ships. Throughout this hazardous patrol he consistently exercised sound judgment and undaunted determination, striking the enemy at every tactical opportunity and saving his ship from serious damage. Commander Harral’s valiant leadership and the loyal devotion to duty of his crew were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Commander Brooks Jared Harral (NSN: 0-71306), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RAY (SS-271), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine in enemy-controlled waters, from 11 December 1943 to 12 January 1944. Exercising splendid initiative, sound judgment and expert tactical ability, Commander Harral repeatedly penetrated hazardous waters in a determined search for Japanese shipping and, striking swiftly with tremendous force upon contact with the enemy, succeeded in sinking two hostile vessels totaling approximately 18,000 tons and in seriously damaging another. Consistently bold and aggressive in the face of strong enemy countermeasures, Commander Harral brought the RAY back to port undamaged and, by his staunch courage, superb professional skill and zealous devotion to duty, rendered valiant service during the early, critical state of World War II. His unfaltering leadership under difficult and dangerous combat conditions upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.